As the NFL Draft approaches, the Arizona Cardinals have positioned themselves at the center of trade speculation. The team’s general manager, Monti Ossenfort, is navigating his second draft with a strategic approach that could reshape the franchise’s future.
Last year, Arizona’s decision to trade down allowed them to stockpile three additional early-round picks, a move that benefited both Houston and Tennessee, who secured top talents Will Anderson Jr. and Will Levis respectively.
This year, the Cardinals are once again looking to leverage their high draft position. Holding the No. 4 pick, they are not in the market for a quarterback, which makes their spot highly attractive for other teams desperate for a top QB prospect. With three quarterbacks expected to be selected in the top three picks, Arizona’s position could be pivotal, offering them a unique bargaining chip in trade discussions.
Teams Eyeing Arizona Cardinals’ Draft Slot
Speculation is rife about which teams are keen to acquire the Cardinals’ No. 4 slot. The Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, and Las Vegas Raiders are among the franchises believed to be interested.
The Vikings, seeking a long-term successor for Kirk Cousins, and the Broncos, even with recent quarterback acquisitions, are rumored to be in the hunt for a top draft choice. Meanwhile, the Raiders’ interest in Jayden Daniels hints at their draft ambitions, despite the low likelihood of a reunion with former coach Antonio Pierce.
Albert Breer of SI.com notes that discussions have been ongoing with three teams, with a fourth potentially entering the fray soon. Such negotiations are typical as teams aim to finalize trade parameters before the draft officially starts, ensuring they can react quickly once they’re on the clock.
Arizona Cardinals’ Draft Approach
The Cardinals’ strategy appears to be one of patience and prudence. Last year’s trades were finalized live during the draft, a tactic Ossenfort seems set to repeat. This approach allows Arizona to maximize its leverage and potentially secure a more lucrative haul for its high-value draft pick.
Given the precedent set by the 49ers’ aggressive move for Trey Lance in 2021—which cost them two future first-rounders and a third-round pick—Arizona could be looking at a significant return if they choose to deal their No. 4 pick.
Here is my final Mock Draft for the 2024 NFL Draft. To me, Arizona is the team that will win Thursday night! Cardinals get three Day One starters in the first round, including two big time defensive pieces!#NFL #NFLDraft #NFLDraft2024 #Cardinals #Chiefs pic.twitter.com/YIQqs3uvmb
— Mark A.Kern II (@Markkern111) April 23, 2024
The Marvin Harrison Jr. Factor
While trades are a focal point, the Cardinals also have their eyes on specific players, notably Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. The prospect of selecting Harrison remains a possibility if the Cardinals choose to use their No. 4 pick themselves. His potential addition would bring a high-caliber weapon to Arizona’s offense, adding an exciting layer to their draft strategy.
Breer also suggests that Arizona could replicate last year’s maneuvering by initially trading down for assets and then moving back up to target a preferred player, echoing their 2022 strategy when they traded down from No. 3 to No. 12 and back up to No. 6.
Arizona Cardinals’ Draft Day Dilemma
As the draft day looms, Arizona Cardinals find themselves in an enviable position, armed with options and the flexibility to shape their future roster effectively. Whether they choose to trade down, stay put, or even trade up, the decisions made by Ossenfort and his team will be pivotal in the evolving narrative of the NFL Draft and could set the stage for the Cardinals’ resurgence as a competitive force in the league.
Source: Yardbarker
